Flyweight Champ Van Blasts UFC Over Title Defense Delay

UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van vented frustration on social media about the lack of a booked first title defense, three events into 2026, tweeting 'Yall want me to wait all year or stay active!?@ufc.' Van, 24, captured the belt from Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 323 and has been active with 10 UFC fights since 2023. The UFC appears waiting for Pantoja's arm injury recovery from December for a rematch, despite Dana White's interest. #2 contender Manel Kape, on a three-fight win streak, emerges as alternative. This delay impacts flyweight momentum, potentially stalling Van's rise.